Tomasi Cama scored 18 points to help New Zealand beat the Springbok Sevens 28-20 in the Cup final at the Adelaide tournament.

The sevens veteran grabbed a brace and kicked four conversions. His final try at the death sealed New Zealand’s fifth World Series tournament this season, one that could prove pivotal in their run to the title as chasing England lost ground with their semi-final defeat to the Blitzboks.

South Africa impressed on day two with victories over Fiji and the Poms in play-offs heading into the final. They then delivered a brave performance against the Kiwis, but the eight-time World Series champions were too strong in the closing stages as the Blitzboks tired.

New Zealand were 14-10 up at the break as Cama and Lote Raikabula dotted down. Paul Treu’s charges kept within reach as Chris Dry and Branco du Preez crossed the chalk.

South Africa then found themselves ahead as Cecil Afrika and Paul Delport scored in quick succession, but Frank Halai’s score edged New Zealand ahead. Cama then finished off proceedings with the final try of the game.

Earlier on day two, South Africa produced a good 24-12 comeback victory against Fiji. The Blitzboks fell 12-0 behind as Pacific Islanders ran in two early tries via Emosi Vucago and David Batiratu. In form 20-year-old Sibusiso Sithole kept South Africa in the game with a try before half-time.

The Blitzboks then sealed the win after the restart as they scored three unanswered tries through Du Preez, teen Tshotsho Mbovane and skipper Kyle Brown.

There was a stronger all-round display in the 19-0 victory over England, who are one of the favourites to win the World Series title this season.

Du Preez and Sithole put South Africa 12-0 ahead at the break with a try each. Mbovane then streched their lead to 19 points with an early second half try. Against a stern defence, England couldn’t reach the whitewash and finished scoreless as they were eliminated from the tournament.